The Eagles' seventh-round pick, Cole Wisniewski, is a safety with a unique skill set. Standing at 6'3 and 219 pounds, he's a physical presence who thrives near the line of scrimmage, excelling in run support. This isn't his first foray into the NFL; Wisniewski's journey began at North Dakota State, where he played for five years before transferring to Texas Tech in 2025. During his time at Texas Tech, he made a name for himself with 78 tackles, 6 for loss, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, and 6 pass breakups in his final season. These impressive statistics showcase his ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball.
Wisniewski's size and playstyle have drawn comparisons to former Eagles safety Reed Blankenship, who was known for his physicality and instincts. However, the most intriguing comparison is to Raiders hybrid safety/linebacker Jeremy Chinn. If the Eagles hadn't drafted Jalen Hurts in 2020, they might have selected Chinn, who played at an FCS school like Wisniewski. Despite the lofty comparison, Chinn's pro career as a starter sets a high bar for Wisniewski, who will have to earn his spot on the roster.
What makes Wisniewski particularly interesting is his versatility. He can play in a dime linebacker role, utilizing his physicality and instincts to make an impact in both run and pass defense. This adaptability is a valuable asset, especially in the modern NFL, where hybrid roles are becoming increasingly common. While he may not start every game, his ability to contribute in a variety of ways could make him a key player for the Eagles' defense.
In my opinion, Wisniewski's journey from an FCS school to the NFL showcases the potential for undervalued talent to make a significant impact. His physicality, instincts, and versatility make him a player to watch, and I believe he could be a key contributor for the Eagles' defense in the coming years. The organization's history of converting safeties into linebackers further highlights the potential for Wisniewski to find his niche in the NFL.
